Geneva: Gender equality as a profession of faith
Gabriele De Bona in conversation with Marcia Blasi from the Lutheran World Federation
Gender justice is not a side issue, but a core mission of church work - Brazilian pastor Marcia Blasi is convinced of this. As Programme Director for Gender Justice at the Lutheran World Federation, she works on the implementation of gender equality and the empowerment of women in the ordained ministry and in leadership positions.
Two strategies are at the centre of her work: theological education and networking. Women should be given access to training and leadership qualifications through scholarships and targeted programmes. This is not just about preaching or leading, but about the opportunity to shape theology themselves. Networking across national borders is another foundation. Although digitalisation makes many things easier, not all women have access to digital spaces. Additional ways are therefore needed to make women's voices heard.
One example is the "Relevant Theology, Gender Justice and Leadership Education for Africa" programme, which brings women and men into a dialogue about gender justice. The situation on the continent is very different: while some churches have been ordaining women for a long time, others still refuse to take this step. For Marcia Blasi, this is an expression of the fact that the road to equality is far from complete.
If she had three wishes, she would start by ending gender-based violence in all its forms. Only when women could live without fear would real justice be possible. Secondly, she would like women - and all people - to be able to experience their dignity as children of God without any pressure to perform. Her third wish is for men to contribute as equal partners and understand that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a shared strength.
For Marcia Blasi, one thing is clear: gender equality is a testimony of faith.
"If we truly believe that everyone is created equal by God, we must create spaces in which everyone can develop their own gifts."
